HANM threatens to halt firm’s work over document verification

SHILLONG, Feb 7: The Hynniewtrep Achik National Movement (HANM) has threatened to stop the work of Star Infratech, a firm contracted by MeECL, if it fails to produce all valid documents within a week.
Members of HANM on Friday met the MeECL chief engineer in charge of the project to seek clarification regarding the contract awarded to Star Infratech, a company based outside Meghalaya.
During the meeting, HANM vice president, Bawan Nongsiej, expressed concerns that the company may lack essential documents, including trading licences, labour licences and other required certifications under the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Acts and Rules.
Nongsiej stressed that local workers are fully capable of implementing the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme in Meghalaya.
Urging the MeECL to prioritise local contractors, citing high unemployment among the state’s youths, he said, “It is unfortunate that despite the availability of local expertise, the contract was awarded to an outside firm.”  Nongsiej further argued that HANM had raised this issue to safeguard local interests and promote employment opportunities within the state.
According to him, this move is likely to fuel a broader discussion on the importance of supporting local contractors.
“We urge the authorities to take this matter seriously and ensure that local people are given preference in awarding contracts. We will not hesitate to take further action if our demands are not met,” Nongsiej added.
HANM also alleged that MeECL released payments to the firm without verifying essential documents.
Meanwhile, the organisation has demanded an explanation from MeECL on how the firm was allowed to commence work without proper documentation and how payments were processed without verification.